HC Deb 29 October 1918 vol 110 cc1274-5
38. Colonel ASHLEY

asked whether any decision has yet been arrived at with respect to raising the pensions of officers disabled in former wars to the level of those disabled in this War?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

Any concession in this direction would have to be limited to the particular classes of case included in the recent Warrants for men, and it is believed that few officers would benefit under these terms, as with wounds pensions their former grants were generally not less liberal than at present. In the circumstances I do not think it is necessary to take up the question.

Colonel ASHLEY

Do I understand from that that this increase is to be granted?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

No; the point of view is that as there really would be no practical benefit it is not worth going into the question.

Mr. HOGGE

Where there is benefit will they have the opportunity of getting it?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

That will certainly be considered.

39. Colonel ASHLEY

asked the Pensions Minister whether he proposes to raise the pensions of the widows of officers killed in former wars to the level of the rates now in vogue for the widows of officers killed in this War?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

The pensions of the widows of officers killed in former wars are, to a great extent, already on a level with present war pensions, no general revision of the scale for officers' widows having been found necessary to meet the circumstances of the present War. In this case, however, of certain of the smaller pensions the question of an increase is under consideration.

Colonel ASHLEY

Will they receive an education grant, the same as in this War?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

I must have notice of that question.

40. Colonel ASHLEY

asked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that there are only two surviving officers who were totally blinded in the South fact that the pensions granted them after that war were less than the pensions granted for this War, and, in addition, liable to Income Tax, he will consider placing them on the tame footing as officers totally blinded in this War?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

In the only case of which I know the officer is receiving as much in pension as he would under the Regulations for the present War. If the hon. and gallant Member will give me the names of the two officers he has in mind, I will consider whether special consideration should be given to them.